The state’s 2008 energy-reform law requires that utilities have 10 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2015. Russell said Consumers is on its way to meet that goal and that raising that standard would be costly to customers and the environment.

The Michigan Energy Michigan Jobs coalition – which includes public health, labor and farming groups -- sent an open letter asking shareholders to demand that Consumers Energy to embrace the ballot initiative. The campaign is collecting petition signatures to place a 25-percent renewable standard on the November ballot.

Campaign officials say the proposal will spark $10 billion in investments and lead to around 50,000 jobs in Michigan.

Dianne Byrum, spokeswoman for Michigan Energy Michigan Jobs, noted Wednesday that the Michigan Public Service Commission recently reported that renewable energy is benefiting the economy through new contracts and investments in Michigan.